Who traditionally sits at the top table in the UK?

The classic UK top table is a long table facing the rest of the guests. The couple sits in the middle, with the bride's mother and father on one side, and the groom's mother and father on the other. The best man sits next to the bride's mother, and the chief bridesmaid sits next to the groom's father. If you have a maid of honour, they might sit beside the best man. This arrangement works well for speeches, because the key speakers are all close by. But you do not have to follow it exactly. Many couples now choose a sweetheart table for just the two of you, or they include step-parents, siblings, or close friends instead. If your parents are divorced or remarried, you can seat them separately or with their new partners, and that is perfectly fine. The important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and included. You can also skip the top table entirely and have a round table where the couple sits with their bridal party, or just with their closest friends. Talk to your venue about table shapes and sizes, and let your own family dynamics guide you. There is no legal rule, only tradition, so make it work for you.